University of Louisiana at Lafayette Parent Guide
Commonly Asked Academic Questions
How many credit hours should my son or daughter schedule?”
A first-time freshman should schedule 12-15 hours in the first semester, which is a reasonable load for a good student. Whether or not the student must work should be considered in making this decision.
Note that if a student schedules fewer hours in any semester than are listed in his/her curriculum, s/he may not graduate at the end of eight semesters (four years) unless these hours are made up in another semester or summer session.
How important is class attendance?
One of the greatest indicators of academic success is class attendance. Coupled with an adequate study schedule, students who attend class do well academically. Encourage your student to attend class as both an obligation and a privilege. Specific class attendance policies are dictated on course syllabi and are at the discretion of faculty members teaching courses.
Extenuating or extreme circumstances (extreme illness, family death, etc) may cause students to miss class for extended periods of time. In these cases, students should contact the Dean of Students Office at (337) 482-6272 to get an extended absence.
Encourage your student to be in touch with their professor each time they miss class to ensure they have not missed any important course information.
How many hours a week should my son or daughter be studying?
In general, a student should be studying 2 hours outside of class for each credit hour they take during a semester. This means that if a student is enrolled in 14 credit hours, they should be spending approximately 28 hours outside of class per week studying and preparing for class.
Many students underestimate the number of hours needed to study and do well in college courses. Encourage your son or daughter to spend adequate time studying and preparing. Their coursework should be the first priority.
My son or daughter has to work. How many hours should they work per week?
The optimal maximum load for outside employment is 15 hours per week.
How many credit hours must a student earn to maintain TOPS eligibility?
A student on Louisiana TOPS must earn 24 semester hours in the Academic Year. Students must be registered for 12+ credit hours on the 14th class day in order to receive TOPS in any given semester. The total of 24 semester hours for TOPS eligibility can be earned over the course of Fall semester, winter intercession, spring semester, and May intercession. Summer term does not count toward the 24 credit hours required by TOPS.
